SPL clubs tune into money worries over English deals

[ian1964 10,720]

by Ronnie Cully

 

ALL 12 SPL clubs are today anxiously seeking confirmation their TV deal with Setanta Sports is not under threat after it was reported the satellite broadcaster want to renegotiate their �£150million contract with the English FA.

 

The Irish-based company have a deal with the SPL worth �£54.5m which runs until 2010, and last year agreed a new contract worth �£125m which is set to extend until 2014.

 

However, after losing the rights to one of the two packages of Premier League matches in the latest round of bidding, concerns have grown about Setanta's ability to hold on to subscribers.

 

Now, with reports claiming they have delayed making a scheduled �£10m payment on their contract with the English FA, and that they want to hold talks to renegotiate the terms of that four year-deal, fears are multiplying within the Scottish game.

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The new SPL contract which was announced last summer was heralded at the time by executive chairman Lex Gold as a major breakthrough for the Scottish game.

 

He said: "It's the biggest-ever TV deal in Scottish football history. This will allow clubs to re-invest to make the Scottish game even stronger.

 

"Ten years ago, we spoke about delivering a brighter future for Scottish football.

 

"Today, as we look ahead to our next 10 years, we can do so with confidence. We look forward to working with them (Setanta) to continue building and developing our league."

 

That confidence is now under pressure as the credit crunch bites.

 

The BBC also has a contract with the SPL until 2012 for match highlights on TV and online on the BBC Sport website.

 

But it would be a massive blow to every SPL club if there was even a delay in any of the payments from the deal they have with Setanta.

 

And assurances will be swiftly sought that there will not be any disturbance to the cash flow. Alarm bells started to ring when Setanta's management last month ordered a major review of their business after they lost the rights to one of their Premiership packages.

 

A Setanta source last night attempted to reassure subscribers and contract partners that they can survive this blow and that they will meet their commitments.

 

They also have deals with the Premier League, the Indian Premier League, and the US PGA Tour and with Premier Rugby that starts next year.

 

ITV - who, like Setanta, have a contract with the English FA - are also reported to be seeking to reschedule payments on their �£275m deal.

 

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